Vera Iris (Kennedy) Sawyer, age 94, died Wednesday, December 14, 2011, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, AR.
Vera was born November 19, 1917, in Livingston, WI, daughter of the late Elmer and Blanche (Moore) Kennedy. She had four brothers, one of which was her twin, all whom predeceased her. On August 6, 1939, she married George Alexander Sawyer in Wausau, WI. They moved to Adams, WI, on Nov. 1, 1947. On Nov. 10, 1984, they retired to Rogers, AR. They celebrated their 71st anniversary on August 6, 2010. Her husband, George, passed away on March 14th, 2011.
Vera was a home-maker first and foremost. She also worked part-time at the Cup & Saucer in Adams. Later, she became Deputy City Clerk under her husband who was the City Clerk of Adams, WI, at the time. She served as president of the VFW’s women’s auxiliary and was an active member of the Ladies’ Aid at the Adams Congregational Church. In November of 1984, George & Vera moved to Rogers, AR, where they enjoyed their retirement. Vera loved music, singing, dancing, and most of all cooking and baking. She was a generous person who enjoyed cooking for family and friends. During the holiday season, she would bake up to 3,500 cookies to give as gifts.
Survived by her children: Barbara (Dominic) Carini of Appleton, WI; Ginger (Ron) Rees of Bentonville, AR; and Joy (Luther) Black of Rogers, AR; foster son Larry (Elizabeth) Kelsey. Five grandchildren: Aaron (Michelle) Black of Springdale, AR; Barbara (Hide) Tada of Cottage Grove, OR; Michelle (Paul) Loebbaka of Appleton, WI; Adam (Angela) Black of Rogers, AR; and Jennifer Rees of Bentonville, AR. Nine great-grandchildren: Brenden, Spencer & Tyler Loebbaka; Taylor Gore & Alex Black; Maya & Zoe Black; Lilliana Rees; and Sofia Tada; Sister-in-Law, Fern Kennedy of Tomah, WI, and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, AR, and Jamestown Nursing & Rehab in Rogers, AR, for their compassionate care given to Vera. Also, thank you to the Temple Baptist Church in Rogers. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Rd. Springdale, AR 72762.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home, Friendship, WI, will be directing arrangements for services. A memorial service will be held at 1 PM on Sat. May 5, 2012 at Roseberry’s. Burial to follow at Mt. Repose Cemetery in Friendship.
So many years both Vera and George worked with Berlie,always there when he had a problem with “THE CITY” SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS
Barbara and family~~ What a wonderful journey your mom and dad had! I have many fond memories of your folks. My prayers are with you at this time.
Sorry to hear of Vara’s death. 71 years of marrage was very special. They were an important part of Adams. Now they are together again.
Aaron and family – Very sorry to hear of your Grandmother’s passing. You have my deepest sympathies.
Vera and George were very gracious neighbors. We often reaped the benefits of Vera’s love of cooking and baking, especially after my father passed away. What an inspiration to be married 71 years. I can’t imagine all the great memories you have, I hope they will comfort you. Sarah
Oh, what fun it was to go to the Sawyer home to visit with Vera, George & kids – always full of happiness.
Always will be a part of my Adams memories!! Bob
Barb, Ginger and Joy, very sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Our parents were the best of friends and spent a lot of years visiting each other. Doesn’t seem that many years ago that we just lived a block apart. Remember your Dad cutting my hair for quite a few years. My deepest condolences. John
Barb–Sorry for your loss. Can’t believe that it has been that long since your folks moved.
Always injoyed seeing them.